Despite the poor weather of May and June, the second quarter of 2007 has continued to see positive growth in the diy superstore market, the latest research from GfK finds.
"Though these figures are down on those seen in Quarter 1, 2007 this is still a reason to be cheerful after the tougher trading conditions seen through 2005 and 2006," Daniel Fearnley, account director, retail and technology said.
Mr Fearnley added that where sales of garden products led the way during March and April, the poor June weather has hindered growth in this key spring category.
He continued: "Sales for April to June 2007 in the plants and plantcare category is showing 2.2% growth on the same period in 2006.
"Garden fences, buildings and sheds are showing quarterly growth of 9%."
GfK's figures also highlight positive growth in homewares - for example, lighting and window furnishings - at 7.4% over the same quarter in 2006.
"Within the heartland of the diy market there is also cause for continued optimism with power tools and hand tools sales growing at 6.5% and 5% respectively over Q2 2006," he added.
Further to this fillers and sealants, and project-led diy purchases are also growing with sales up 8.5% and 7.9% during Q2 2007.